హోళీ

Holi, is a festival celebrated at the approach of the spring season, during the 3 or 4 days preceding the full moon day in the month of Phalgun (March–April).

Holi is celebrated as the festival of the victory of Good over Evil. It has different mythological connotations in different parts of India. The most popular relates to an ancient demon king in India known as Hiranya Kashipu. He sent his sister Holika to kill his son Prahalada who was immensely devoted to Lord Vishnu whom Hiranya Kashipu despised. Holika had a boon that she would not burn in fire. She tried to kill Prahalada by sitting in the fire. However, by Lord Vishnu’s grace, Prahalad was unhurt, but Holika was burnt to death. Even today, bonfires are lit on the night before Holi in memory of the saving of Prahlad and burning of the evil Holika. The next day, people celebrate by applying coloured powder to each other. This is a symbol of love, friendship and goodwill.

This section contains games, art and craft ideas and stories related to the festival that can be conducted in the class.